Track Shoe Requirements

NASA specified detailed performance and 
production requirements for the track shoe.

• The  mechanical strength requirements were-  
  • Ultimate tensile strength  --130 ksi
  • Yield strength  --  110 ksi
• Hardness requirements were specified for 21 critical locations on the casting separated into three zones. 
  • Hardness range requirements for the center lugs and roller path zones were 294 to 327 Brinell hardness (BHN). 
  • The pin lug zone hardness range was specified as 286 to 344 BHN.

  • The microstructure in the casting had to be controlled for phase content to produce the desired hardness in the different regions.  This required precise control of the heat treatment (heat-quench-temper). 

• The quality assurance requirements were also extensive, covering both casting process parameters and comprehensive inspection,  testing, and non-destructive and destructive evaluation of castings.

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In cooperation with ME Elecmetal